Sometimes referred to as the Marmaris Fort instead of Marmaris Castle, the ancient, seaside structure is known locally as Marmaris Kalesi Müze in the country's native language. Constructed on the historic site of former castles, the stonework building dates back to 1522 by a sultan of the Ottoman empire. Restored over a period of 10 years, Marmaris Castle opened to the public in 1991. Visitors can stroll along the ancient walls and through the courtyards while viewing exhibits of excavations, artwork and artifacts of the Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine periods. The museum's hours of operation are somewhat limited and it is typically closed every Monday, so be sure to call ahead before planning a visit.
All around Marmaris and its outlying areas are ruins of ancient cities and ramparts dating all the way back to the 4th century B.C. Braver vacationers can rent their own vehicles to tour the ruins located within the vicinity, such as the historic walls of Physkos located just north of the city or the hillside amphitheater and temple ruins of Amos near Kumlubük Bay. Other historic ruins require a ferry ride or a boat rental for up close viewing, such as the ruins of Cedrae on the City Islands or the Temple of Aphrodite on the nearby Greek Isle of Rhodes. For tourists who would rather not attempt to get around on their own, local travel agencies organize daily excursions to intriguing outlying areas such as the ornate ruins of the ancient city of Ephesus.
The beauty surrounding the city extends beyond the stone-carved ruins created by ancient craftsmen; Marmaris' natural landscape and coastline is part of what attracted inhabitants to the area from the beginning. Local boat tours take voyagers along the coast to see sights such as the Fosforlu Cavern or out to nearby tourist stops like the peninsular island of Cennet. Visitors who have a few days to spend in Marmaris should consider taking one of the all-day nature excursions by boat or coach to nearby natural attractions. Trips to the Daylan Mud Baths can include stops to view the sea turtles at Turtle Beach, or tourists can take on the five-hour bus ride to experience the mineral baths of Pamukkale with its pure white stalactites and cascades that earned them the nickname "cotton castle."
